Cristina Casanova Might recently visited the Georgia Aquarium with her family. The aquarium has “Sensory Hours,” which are generally the first hour of operation. Both of her children, her youngest Winston in particular, can become overwhelmed with intense and persistent sensations—sensory overload. That one hour is optimal because there’s less traffic and reduced lights and sounds.

“He loved it,” said Cristina. “He was able to actually enjoy the aquarium, and we were able to stay much longer than normal. But because he enjoyed it more, so did we!”

Recently, Birmingham’s Red Mountain Theatre (BMT) announced it will provide special ASL-interpreted and sensory-friendly performances to better serve the community.

“At RMT, we believe theatre is for everyone,” they reported in their most recent newsletter. “(We) are committed to providing a theatre experience that is accessible to people with extra needs.“ 

An ASL-interpreted performance will be provided on the second Saturday evening performance of each production within the season. Upcoming performances include Bright Star, Shrek The Musical, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Patrons are encouraged to contact the Box Office to be seated near the interpreter.

RMT will also offer special, sensory-friendly performances of select shows. These productions are modified to create an enjoyable experience for attendees on the autism spectrum and those with sensory processing disorders, anxiety, or other cognitive or physical disabilities. (RMT) 

Through a partnership with KultureCityⓇ, RMT also offers KultureCityⓇ Sensory Bags for both children and adults. These bags are available during any performance and contain items that can assist in lessening sensory overload. 

“Red Mountain Theatre is committed to creating meaningful experiences on and off the stage. We strive to reflect and serve the rich diversity of Birmingham and the surrounding area in our art, staff, and community work.” (RMT is Sensory Friendly)

“We at Welcomed Co™ applaud RMT for taking the extra step to make theatre accessible to all people with all abilities,” added Cristina. “I look forward to attending one of the sensory friendly performances with my family.”

Sensory-friendly performances will be offered during the for Shrek The Musical on June 7 and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on July 26. Contact the box office for tickets.

What changes can you expect for the sensory friendly performance? Accommodations for these performances include:

• Audience size is limited
• Lower sound levels, especially for startling or jarring sounds
• Reduced strobe lighting or lighting focused on the audience
• Lights in the theatre will remain on at a low level during the performance
• Patrons are free to talk, make noise and leave their seats during the performance
• Space for standing and movement throughout the theatre
• Limited crowds and visitors during the time of the performance
• Designated quiet areas within the lobby if patrons need a break from the performance
• RMT staff trained to be inviting and accommodating to patrons’ needs.

(RMT is Sensory Friendly)

Photo Credit: “Disused Cinema” by rawpixel is licensed under CC0 1.0